Amber Heard

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We firmly believe that everything happens for a reason and life can work out in unexpectedly and serendipitous ways. One example that comes to mind is the accidental acting career of Amber Heard. Upon researching Heard's circuitous path to her current position as Hollywood's next big thing, we discovered that before she decided to test her chops in front of the rolling cameras, she moved from her hometown of Austin, Texas to New York City to pursue a career in modeling. And though that may not have panned out as she originally hoped, when you cut to the presentÂ--memorable bit parts in The Pineapple Express and Zombieland, not to mention an upcoming role on the big screen opposite Johnny Depp in The Rum Diary (Hunter S. Thompson-inspired bio-pic, which will be released in March 2010)Â--this young rising star has most definitely landed on her feet. Of course, with a career on the ascent, and an armory of killer red carpet ensembles in the bag, we can't help but think Amber Heard is right where she's meant to be!

Heard donned one such outstanding outfit at a celebratory dinner for the CFDA/Vogue Fashion fund at Bouchon in Beverly Hills last month. Though her draped and deconstructed vintage dress is certainly divine, we like how she added a little contrast via a deluxe black fur shrug. Be sure to recreate this flawless combo with Lisa Jayne Dann's Cowl Neck Mini Dress ($212) layered under Topshop's Knitted Shaggy Cardigan ($135). Just remember to add your go-to black opaque tights and an oversized party clutch, and you'll be ready for any fashionable festive event in Heard-endorsed ensemble! Also, on a beauty note, mimic Heard's glamour-girl look with a chic chignon or asymmetrical undo (very of the moment this holiday season!), strong brows, and a red lipÂ--if you are feeling fancy!

Just as Heard demonstrated a winning way to wear black and white at night, she also often turns to that stark palette for day events, as well. Seen at a fashion show supporting emerging American designers at the legendary Chateau Marmont (earlier that afternoon!), Heard rocked yet another dynamic ensemble. Though her satin Moschino skirt and brilliant Balenciaga printed blouse are certainly daring, we are fond of the way she kept the silhouette classic. Though her exact pieces are no longer available, make sure to check out Patterson J Kincaid's Egyptian Tunic Top ($98) tucked into Forever 21's Satin Sheath Skirt ($15) or Topshop's Ruched Wrap Skirt ($65).

Of course, a GOTM can not live in skirts and tops alone; in fact, she's got quite the dress collection, as evidenced by her animal-printed Yves Saint Laurent frock, which she wore to the Los Angeles premiere of House Bunny in late August. Leopard pieces such as boots, scarves, and most recently, cropped coats have been all the rage this season, but we particularly like how Heard's demure dress strikes the right balance between being on-trend without seeming over-the-top. The modest length and neckline is refreshing on such a PYT, so we absolutely wanted to present you, dear readers, with a few variations on this chic cat-inspired number. Betsey Johnson's Leopard Print Dress ($288) is a spot-on dead-ringer for Heard's YSL dress, but we are also wild about Only Hearts' Leopard Jersey Open Back Dress ($158), and Rare's Leopard Print Knitted Dress ($58).

Finally, we have an outfit that shines as strongly as our subject du jour, specifically her get-up for Jason Wu's spring preview in Los Angeles in October. This pale jacket and saffron satin skirt from the designer's S/S 10 collection are quite lovely, but we think it's her sequin-bedazzled top that really steals the show. Of course, all three pieces are wise investments and would look sharp on their own, but if you wear them all together, as Heard deftly does, you'll have the recipe for sartorial success. Just mix Kimchi Blue's Sweater Top Coat ($148), with a shiny top selection like Silence & Noise's Sequin Racer Tank ($68) or Forever 21's Shimmer Striped Tunic ($18) and repeat if necessary for every elegant evening event on your calendar!